The province of Bulacan has shared a significant role in our country most especially during the colonial time. Bulacan is considered as one of the earliest provinces in Central Luzon. The province has become an ideal tourist destination, because of its vital role in Philippine history and the rich heritage of its arts and culture.
Bulacan is famous for its historical sites, nostalgic old houses, fabulous churches, religious attractions, enchanting fiestas, ecological attractions, and a huge selection of native crafts and delicacies. It homes numerous resorts, hotels, and other recreational facilities.
Aside from numerous hotel and resorts, Bulacan is famous for its churches including the Barasoain Church which is also known as Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish. It is a national shrine where the historic Constitutional Convention of The first Philippine Republic happened that lead the Philippines to become the very first Asian Government to have a constitution.
The Barasoain Church also served as the capital of the First Philippine Republic on September 15, 1898 until the last week of Feb. 1899. The church boasts a sound and light museum under the supervision of the National Historic institute.
There is also another religious building in Bulacan that has a historical value, and it’s the St. Joseph the Worker Parish Church. It is one of the oldest churches in Bulacan which is situated in San Jose del Monte.
During 1751 the church was only made of light materials, it was later reconstructed into a stone church in 1842 and was finished in 1854. The parish certainly witnessed the past and able to survive over the years. Like other 19th century church, it has also undergone renovations and enhancements to maintain its elegant and classic architecture.
Throughout the wars that it witnessed, the church was burned thrice. The first was during the Spanish Filipino War (1896-1898), second was during the Japanese-Filipino War (1941-1942) and lastly during the Huk/Sakdal Rebellion (1960s). Today, the church is remodeled but it still has the ambience of antiquity and the original bell tower is still there.
The massive wall of the church was constructed with adobe blocks while its windows have stained glass that enhances the exterior look of the church which illuminates the interior with different colors. Adobe blocks were used to build the massive wall of the church. While the windows that has stained glass enhances the exterior look and illuminated the interior with hue of colours -- a kaleidoscope of lights.
St. Joseph the Worker Parish is surely a good place to have some religious relief.
How to get there:
Dubbed as the "Northern Gateway from Manila," there are numerous buses plying the main Metro Manila highway – EDSA – that directly goes to Bulacan via the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX).
Upon reaching San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, you can ride a jeep and drop off right in front of the church.
You may also check other tourist destinations located in Bulacan.